If you are craving a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor that’s both effortless and satisfying, this Ravioli Soup Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. Combining tender cheese-filled ravioli with a rich, savory broth packed with ground beef, tomato, and fragrant herbs, this soup brings together the best of Italian-inspired cooking in one pot. It’s a delightful balance of hearty textures and vibrant tastes that will lift your spirits and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners, this Ravioli Soup Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients You'll Need
Every star dish starts with the right ingredients, and this Ravioli Soup Recipe is no exception. The items here are straightforward but each plays a vital role in delivering that perfect depth of flavor and satisfying texture. From the aroma of fresh garlic to the tang of crushed tomatoes, every element works together to create a harmonious, soulful soup.
- Olive oil: This adds a beautifully smooth base for browning your beef and softening the onions.
- Lean ground beef: Provides heartiness and rich flavor without too much fat.
- Large onion (chopped): Lends sweetness and depth once cooked down with the beef.
- Dried basil: Infuses the broth with classic Italian herbal notes.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Packs a punch of aroma and savory richness.
- Crushed tomatoes: Contribute tangy sweetness and vibrant color to the base.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: Forms a flavorful liquid foundation, keeping the soup light yet tasty.
- Ravioli: The star ingredient, bringing soft, cheesy pockets of bliss to the soup.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): Adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the dish.
- Fresh basil (for serving): Introduces freshness and a pop of bright green that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
How to Make Ravioli Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Soften the Onions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir frequently, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon so it cooks evenly. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the onions have softened and turned translucent, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Sauté Until Fragrant
Once your beef and onions are perfectly browned, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it just until fragrant—about one minute. Garlic releases its robust aroma quickly, and this short cooking time ensures it won’t burn or become bitter, enhancing the depth of the broth.
Step 3: Pour in Crushed Tomatoes and Broth, Then Simmer
Next, add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together to combine beautifully, then bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. This gentle simmer lets the flavors meld and the broth develop a rich, comforting taste. Remember to stir occasionally to keep the ingredients well mixed.
Step 4: Cook the Ravioli Until Tender
After the soup has simmered, gently add the ravioli to the pot. Let them cook for 5 to 8 minutes or until they are al dente. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the ravioli brand and size, so keep an eye on that delicate pasta to avoid overcooking. The ravioli will soak up some of the soup's flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
Step 5: Serve with Tasty Toppings
Now comes the fun part—scooping your hot, flavorful soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some torn fresh basil leaves. These finishing touches add brightness and a layer of creamy umami that will have everyone going back for seconds.
How to Serve Ravioli Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To bring your Ravioli Soup Recipe to the next level, fresh and simple garnishes make all the difference. Grated Parmesan adds a savory, salty kick that melts slightly into the hot soup. Fresh basil offers herbaceous freshness and a lovely splash of green. For a little extra texture, consider a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This soup shines best when paired with complementary sides. Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread works like a charm, perfect for dunking and soaking up that rich broth. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a lovely counterbalance to the soup’s richness. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a cheese plate for a more elaborate meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Presenting your Ravioli Soup Recipe in a charming way makes the meal feel extra special. Serve it in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan right at the table. For casual gatherings, ladle the soup into mini bread bowls for a delightful edible container. Adding a fresh basil leaf on top or a small drizzle of pesto can turn your serving into a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ravioli Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen nicely overnight, making the next day’s meal even more satisfying. Just keep it chilled and covered to maintain freshness and prevent any strong odors from affecting the soup.
Freezing
Because ravioli can become a bit soft after freezing and reheating, it’s best to freeze the soup without adding the pasta initially. Store the beef and tomato broth mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup and cook fresh ravioli separately before combining for serving. This way, your soup retains the perfect texture.
Reheating
To gently reheat your Ravioli Soup Recipe, warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot all the way through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If you’ve stored ravioli separately, boil them fresh and add to the reheated soup just before serving for that perfect finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli for this Ravioli Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli work just as well as fresh in this soup, though you may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time when adding them to the simmering broth. Make sure they are fully cooked but still tender for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt the Ravioli Soup Recipe to a vegetarian version by skipping the ground beef and using vegetable broth. Consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the flavor and nutrition.
What type of ravioli works best in this soup?
Cheese-filled ravioli are classic and provide a creamy texture that complements the broth perfectly. You can experiment with meat or spinach ravioli depending on your preference, but cheese ravioli usually offer the most comforting melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Can I prepare the soup in advance for a party?
Definitely! Prepare the base of the soup a day ahead and refrigerate it. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the soup and cook the ravioli freshly in the broth just before guests arrive, ensuring a warm and delicious dish.
How do I avoid the ravioli getting mushy in the soup?
The key is to add ravioli toward the end of cooking and only cook them until al dente, about 5 to 8 minutes. Avoid letting the soup sit too long once the ravioli is added; serve immediately for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the joy a warm bowl of this Ravioli Soup Recipe brings to your table. It’s hearty yet light, comforting yet exciting with every bite. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, it’s the kind of dish that makes people feel cared for and satisfied. So go ahead and try this delicious recipe—you’re going to fall in love with how simple and delightful homemade soup can be!
Print
Ravioli Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Ravioli Soup is a comforting and easy-to-make meal featuring lean ground beef, flavorful herbs, and tender ravioli simmered in a savory tomato and vegetable broth. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (25-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 8-10 ounces ravioli
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook while breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer the soup base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and low-sodium vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors.
- Cook the ravioli: Add the ravioli to the pot and continue cooking until they are tender but still al dente, about 5 to 8 minutes depending on the package instructions.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately for a warm and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use any type of filled ravioli, such as cheese or meat, according to your preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Vegetable broth can be swapped with chicken broth if you prefer a richer flavor.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; ravioli may absorb soup liquid, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
Leave a Reply